Vertebrate Animal Form (5A) for Science and Engineering Fairs 2026–2027

This form is required for all research involving vertebrate animals that is conducted in a school, home, or field research site. SRC approval is required before experimentation.

To be completed by Student Researcher

1. Common name (or Genus, species) and number of animals used.
2. Describe completely the housing and husbandry to be provided. Include the cage/pen size, number of animals per cage, environment, bedding, type of food, frequency of food and water, how often the animal is observed, etc. Add an additional page as necessary.
3. What will happen to the animals after experimentation?
4. Attach a copy of wildlife licenses or approval forms, as applicable.
5. The ISEF Vertebrate Animal Rules require that any death, illness, or unexpected weight loss be investigated and documented by a letter from the qualified scientist, direct supervisor, or a veterinarian. If applicable, attach this letter with this form when submitting your paperwork to the SRC prior to competition.

To be completed by Local or Affiliate Fair Scientific Review Committee (SRC) BEFORE experimentation

Level of Supervision Required for agricultural, behavioral, or nutritional studies (select one):

• Direct Supervisor REQUIRED. Please have applicable person sign below.
• Veterinarian and Direct Supervisor REQUIRED. Please have applicable persons sign below.
• Veterinarian, Direct Supervisor, and Qualified Scientist REQUIRED. Please have applicable persons sign below and have the Qualified Scientist complete Form (2).

The SRC has carefully reviewed this study and finds it is an appropriate study that may be conducted in a non-regulated research site.

Local or affiliate fair SRC pre-approval signature:

SRC Chair Printed Name	Signature	Date of Approval (must be prior to experimentation) (mm/dd/yy)
Printed Name	Signature	Date of Approval
Printed Name	Signature	Date of Approval
Printed Name	Signature	Date of Approval

To be completed by Veterinarian

• I have reviewed this research and animal husbandry with the student before the start of experimentation.
• I have approved the use and dosages of prescription drugs and/or nutritional supplements.
• I will provide veterinary medical and nursing care in case of illness or emergency. (Fees may apply.)

To be completed by Direct Supervisor or Qualified Scientist when applicable

• I have reviewed this research and animal husbandry with the student before the start of experimentation and I accept primary responsibility for the care and handling of the animals in this project.
• I will directly supervise the experiment.